Canon A490 vs Panasonic FH7

Here is a detailed assessment of the Canon A490 and Panasonic FH7, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Canon and Panasonic. There is a huge difference between the sensor resolutions of the A490 (10MP) and FH7 (16MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The A490 was announced 20 months prior to the FH7 making them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the A490 grades against the FH7 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon PowerShot A490 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH7. The whole galleries are provided at Canon A490 Gallery and Panasonic FH7 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera, you should consider its weight and volume. The Canon A490 enjoys outside dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 31mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 1.2") with a weight of 175 grams (0.39 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FH7 has sizing of 95mm x 56mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Analyze the Canon A490 and Panasonic FH7 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the A490 against the FH7.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the A490 and FH7 is 93 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's tough to imagine the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading a spec sheet. The photograph below should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the A490 and FH7.

Clearly, the two cameras feature the identical sensor size but different resolution. You should anticipate the Panasonic FH7 to deliver greater detail with its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos way more aggressively. The older A490 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.